Arizona State University (ASU) has been offering social work courses in Tucson for over five decades, providing a vital resource for the community. This fall, a new class of social work students has embarked on their journey towards becoming social workers, all while staying in their hometown of Tucson. Among these students are Sharday Bennett-Rau, Austin Bonasia, Cheyanne Sorg, and Lov’e Sturm, each with their own unique motivations and aspirations for entering the field of social work.
Sharday Bennett-Rau, a Tucson native, was inspired to pursue social work after her sister tragically passed away from a fentanyl overdose. This personal experience ignited a passion within her to create positive change and support vulnerable communities in need. Similarly, Austin Bonasia felt compelled to enter social work due to the challenges facing men and the societal stigmas surrounding emotional expression. His goal is to empower men to embrace vulnerability and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Lov’e Sturm chose to pursue her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at ASU in Tucson because of the university’s strong commitment to community engagement and social justice, aligning perfectly with her values. Cheyanne Sorg, starting her Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program, aims to give back to her community in ways that others have supported her. She envisions providing individual therapy and counseling to make a positive impact on those in need.
Despite ASU’s long-standing presence in Tucson, many are unaware that it is the only public university in the area offering an in-person social work degree program. The university has produced thousands of graduates in the region, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to make a difference in the field of social work. Students at ASU in Tucson contribute over 90,000 service hours annually to the community, gaining real-world experience at various social service agencies in southern Arizona.
The incoming class of social work students in Tucson reflects a diverse group, with a mix of Arizona residents, nonresidents, and international students. The students, with an average age of 30 for BSW and 32 for MSW students, share a common passion for serving others and making a positive impact in their communities. The program also welcomes students with advanced standing, allowing them to complete their master’s program in one year instead of two, based on their previous academic achievements.
As these students progress through their social work programs at ASU in Tucson, they are preparing for a future dedicated to serving others. Austin Bonasia plans to focus on helping individuals struggling with alcoholism and addiction, with aspirations of opening his own practice or sober-living program. Sharday Bennett-Rau hopes to work with military personnel in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or pursue a commission in the armed services. Lov’e Sturm aims to support individuals through the dying process with dignity and compassion, while Cheyanne Sorg plans to continue her education with an MSW and work in therapy or government offices to create and influence social policies.
The School of Social Work at ASU in Tucson, part of the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions, continues to nurture and empower future social workers who are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others. With a strong commitment to community engagement and social justice, ASU in Tucson provides a supportive environment for students to grow and thrive in their pursuit of a career in social work.